Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel

A Hidden Sanctuary of History, Devotion, and Architectural Grace in La Crosse

Tucked within the historic grounds of La Crosse’s Catholic Cemetery, Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel offers a serene and sacred experience unlike any other in the city. This small but profoundly moving chapel is a testament to 19th-century craftsmanship, religious heritage, and the enduring power of quiet reflection. With its Gothic Revival architecture, spiritual symbolism, and solemn setting, Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel remains one of La Crosse’s most contemplative landmarks—a place where memory, reverence, and artistry meet. In a city where modern infrastructure and IT services are increasingly woven into daily life, the chapel provides a peaceful counterbalance, grounding visitors in tradition, beauty, and spiritual depth.

Built for Mourning, Standing for Eternity

Constructed in 1891 under the guidance of the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel was designed as a memorial space and burial chapel within the Catholic Cemetery. The chapel served—and still serves—as a sacred place to honor and pray for the deceased. It was dedicated to Mary under the title of Our Lady of Sorrows, reflecting a Catholic devotion to the sorrowful experiences of the Virgin Mary, especially those connected to loss and mourning.

The chapel was designed by local architect Hugo Schick and built by master stonemason Joseph Weiser. Despite its modest scale, the building embodies great architectural ambition. Every element—from the arched windows to the hand-carved stone altar—was crafted with care and purpose. Its foundation of limestone and sandstone anchors it firmly to the earth, while its pointed spire and cross gesture skyward, symbolizing hope and eternal life.

A Stunning Example of Gothic Revival Architecture

Step inside and you’ll discover a space that feels both intimate and transcendent. Light filters through stained glass windows depicting scenes of Mary’s sorrows, casting soft hues over the stone floor and wooden pews. The chapel's vaulted ceiling, ornamental woodwork, and altar canopy draw the eye upward in a subtle but powerful gesture of reverence.

Though only about 500 square feet in size, the chapel feels larger in spirit. The intentional design evokes quiet dignity and invites visitors into reflection—on faith, loss, beauty, and the passage of time. It remains one of the most authentic examples of Gothic Revival ecclesiastical architecture in the region.

Still Used, Still Loved

While Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel is not used for regular weekly services, it continues to be a space for occasional Masses, memorials, and private prayer. Families with loved ones buried in the Catholic Cemetery often visit the chapel as part of their time spent honoring the deceased.

The chapel also holds significance for local history lovers and preservationists. In 1986, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places due to its architectural and cultural value. Since then, ongoing efforts have helped maintain its structure and protect its artifacts, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience its atmosphere of solemn beauty.

Visiting the Chapel Today

The chapel is located within La Crosse Catholic Cemetery at 519 Losey Boulevard South. It is most easily accessed by car, with parking available near the main gates. Visitors are welcome to explore the chapel exterior and surrounding grounds during daylight hours, and the interior may be opened during special events or by appointment with cemetery staff.

For those interested in religious architecture, funerary art, or local history, this chapel is an essential stop. It's also an ideal complement to a broader tour of La Crosse’s historical sites, including nearby places like the Mons Anderson House, Christ Episcopal Church, and the Hixon House.

A Space for Reflection and Connection

What sets Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel apart is its emotional clarity. Unlike large cathedrals or bustling urban churches, this space was built to provide stillness—to allow individuals to commune with their memories, their loved ones, and their faith in a quiet, personal way.

The architecture is beautiful, yes, but it’s also deeply human. Every stone, window, and statue serves a purpose beyond aesthetics. They create an environment where time slows down, noise fades, and the presence of the sacred becomes tangible.

Whether you have personal ties to the cemetery, an interest in Catholic heritage, or simply a desire to experience one of La Crosse’s most poignant spaces, Our Lady of Sorrows Chapel offers a moment of pause in a busy world. It’s not only a testament to the past—it’s a refuge for the present, and a promise that care, craftsmanship, and remembrance never go out of style.

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